Who Says High Speed Blenders are too Expensive?
Welcome to Part 1 of our Saving Money Eating Raw post series.
One of the most common complaints we get about going raw from our readers, is that the equipment is too expensive for them to purchase.
We'll be the first to admit two things: if you want to be a raw superstar, you need a high-speed blender. You need one. Seriously. And yes, we agree that raw food equipment can be expensive...
But, it doesn't have to be if you're resourceful! And thanks to the Internet and all of the incredible resources and people out there, we can all save money and get started eating raw...right now!
Yes, all VitaMix Blenders are Created Equal! (ok not really)
Ok, maybe that's not entirely true. Check out our review of the 4500 vs. the Super 5200. If you haven't read our review of the two blenders, read that first and come back.
There is a difference between the Vita-Mix models, but not by much. When it comes down to it, any VitaMix or other high-speed blender will get the job done.
With that said, we have to thank our friends over at Freshtopia.net (RIP Oscar) for introducing us to the fact that any VitaMix can get the job done, and these things can literally last forever!
Tanja from Freshtopia has said that she picked up an older VitaMix model, a 3600, at a garage sale for about $20 or so. The older Vita-Mix 3600 model was made for like 30 years or so if we're not mistaken we have known that many people still own their 3600 and use it, and they have for a decade or more!
Here's the kick: the motor and power of these blenders hasn't changed much over the years.
And, there is such a proliferation of these old Vita-Mix blenders that you shouldn't have a hard time finding one if you don't own a high-speed blender.
How Much Do These Vita-Mix 3600's cost?
We just did a quick search on eBay for a VitaMix 3600 and found that full, working 3600 models are selling for about $100-150 on average! The new 5200s cost about $550 brand new!
Also, if you do a search for the VitaMix 3600 on eBay, you'll find quite a bit of replacement parts for this model (or any VitaMix model), including tampers, tops, and more! Unbelievable!
In comparison, we did a quick search for "blenders" over at Target.com and found out that current "quality" blender models are going for $60-100. These blenders are nowhere near the quality, durability, and verasitlity that you can get with any VitaMix. In fact, we received a $90 blender for our wedding in 2003, and when we went raw in 2004, that thing lasted about two weeks before it burnt out. One day we had a blender, the next day we had smoke. And then we had to throw our wedding present in the trash. Not cool.
We learned our lesson, now you don't have to.
The Raw Food Equipent Myth
Don't buy into the myth that raw food equipment needs to be expensive. You can start with a VitaMix 3600 right now for probably $125 on eBay, or search for a local one at craigslist.org. Grab one and get started. You can always upgrade to the 5200 later.
We love our 5200 so much we're sure you'll want to upgrade someday.
And yes, there are other quality blenders like the BlendTec out there, but hey, we're partial to the VitaMix. It's our baby.
So, if you're new to raw foods and are putting it off because you are worried about the high price tag of these blenders, go to eBay right now and start with a beautiful, stainless steel VitaMix 3600.
If you have a Vita-Mix 3600 or know someone who does, let us know in the comments!
More tips on saving money coming soon!
~ JS and Heidi
Raw Food Right Now
P.S. If you're ready to jump to the incredible 5200, you can get free shipping if you order one here.
Related:
- VitaMix 4500 vs. 5200 Comparison Review
- Raw Food Right Now Saved You Money This Holiday Season!
- We Like It Raw - Fantastic Raw Holiday Deals
photo credit: rickh710
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If you plan on reprinting this article on your website or newsletter, please include the following credit and link:
Heidi & JS Ohlander are the creators of Raw Food, Right Now!, a website dedicated to making the raw food diet fun and easy for everyone. Heidi & JS help bring raw food to your world by offering tips, news, and information on integrating raw foods into your daily life. You can find out more by going to www.rawfoodrightnow.com.
